Shanghai

Overview

Look to the sky in Shanghai - one of the most progressive cities in China with the designer skyline of Pudong for proof.

Switch between the furious pace of modern China with its myriad of cool bars, eclectic boutiques and contemporary galleries, and its traditional past. Explore art deco buildings along 'the Bund' (outer bank), stroll through the quiet leafy streets of the former French Concession, or enjoy a steaming bowl of 'xiaolongbao' soup dumplings from a street vendor on the cobbled streets of the Shanghai Jewish Ghetto. The 'Paris of the east' is a charming combination of the old and new and simply by being there, you will be at the centre of modern history.

Where to go

Split by the Huangpu River, Shanghai is divided into the old city centre of Puxi, on the west shore of the river, and the newer business centre of Pudong, on the east shore.

You’ll probably find yourself in Puxi, the cultural and entertainment epicentre of Shanghai, but the modernist attractions of Pudong, with its dizzying Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Cente are not to be missed.

The Bund

This famous promenade along the bank of the Huangpu River contains dozens of well preserved historic buildings that were previously foreign banks and trading houses, including the famous art deco Peace Hotel, Metropole Hotel, Sassoon House, Park Hotel and the neoclassical HSBC Building.

Stroll along the Bund and visit some of the gorgeous high-end bars and boutiques within the stone walls.

Lujiazu

Across the river from the Bund is the central modern financial and commercial district of Lujiazu in Pudong is often referred to simply as Pudong.

Since the development boom of the 90s the construction here has continued to transform the city skyline at a rapid pace. Famous for its futuristic architecture, in particular the Oriental Pearl TV TowerOpens external site in a new window which is a resonant symbol of the city. Many of the skyscrapers house hotels and shopping malls and Pudong International Airport is also on this side of the river.

French Concession

The tree lined streets of the French Concession are a beautiful contrast to Pudong.

Bound by Ruijin Lu to the east, Yan’an Lu to the north, Zhaojaibang Lu to the south and Huashan Lu to the west – this area includes Xintiandi with its narrow paved streets and refurbished traditional shikumen (alleys) that now house high-end shops and restaurants. Fuxing Park is a large green space with French style gardens surrounded by bars, clubs and restaurants.

Huangpu

Huangpu is the traditional city centre and location of many of the city’s key attractions; People’s Square, People’s Park, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall and City Hall.

Changning

North-east of the city, this large residential area is where Hongqiao International Airport is located as well as Shanghai Zoo. There are some commercial and entertainment hubs around Zhongshan Park.

Jing’an

This area has been settled since the third century AD and the Jing’an Temple is located here. The commercial district of West Nanjing Road extends from here to People’s Square.

Old City

This relatively small area is the old Chinese part of the city and a place to see examples of ancient wooden architecture including the Yu GardenOpens external site in a new window, the Old City God Temple and the Huxingting Tea House.

Hongkou

This area is not always on the radar for visitors, but is fascinating because of the significant Jewish population that lived here post World War II. With narrow, cobblestone streets, European style buildings and Ohel Moshe Synagogue, this could be a neighbourhood in Warsaw.

Quick facts

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CN¥)

Electricity

220V / 50Hz

Population

14,350,000

Seasons

Shanghai experiences weather extremes. In winter (December to February) it regularly drops below 0°C, while in summer (June to August) the city reaches temperatures of 40°C and higher. The most temperate time to visit the city is between September and November.

Getting around

From the airport

Flights to Shanghai on Qantas arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport Terminal 1 where you can get into town on the subway system or with a reasonably priced private transferOpens external site.